Bear Activity In Apostle Islands Prompts Expanded Temporary Closure

A temporary closure on Oak Island in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has been expanded because of bear activity.

The closure on Oak Island, which first took effect on Aug. 13, now includes the dock, group campsite B and individual campsites 2, 3 and 4, the Northwest Beach Trail from campsite 4 to the first trail junction and the Oak Island camping zone. Day use is prohibited in the closed campsite and trail areas and the dock is closed to overnight and most day use, according to park officials.

Backpackers with valid permits for Oak Island campsites can be dropped off at the dock or the open campsite for which they have a permit.

One resident bear has been frequenting the area, exhibiting behavior that indicates that it’s not afraid of humans, and deterrence techniques are being used to encourage the bear to stay away from humans and visitor use areas, according to a news release from the park.

Visitors are asked to ensure that no food is left unattended and report bear activity on Oak Island immediately to park headquarters at (715) 779-3398, extension 122.